Jack Woodley was stabbed in the back after a night out at a fair in Houghton-le-Spring last October. He died in hospital the next day.
Brutal Attack Like ‘Animals on Prey’
Ten boys, aged 14 to 18, were convicted in June following a Newcastle Crown Court trial. Witnesses described how Jack was “isolated” and attacked by a mob likened to “zombies” tearing into their victim.
The 15-year-old who admitted to delivering the fatal stab wound received a life sentence with a minimum of 17 years behind bars. He had pleaded guilty to manslaughter, but the jury found him guilty of murder.
Judge Delivers Harsh Verdict
“The fact you had a knife was not a secret. You were well aware Jack was unarmed,” Judge Rodney Jameson told the teen. “Despite that, you chose violence. You stabbed yourself once, but then struck Jack fatally in the back.”
“You are serving a sentence longer than your life. You’ll be 32 before you’re eligible for release.”
Younger Defendant Gets Lighter Sentence
The youngest, a 14-year-old, was sentenced to a minimum of eight years. Judge Jameson noted the boy is a “vulnerable young lad” with a learning disability that limited his understanding.
“What you did was wrong, but you’re less to blame than the others,” the judge said. “Custody may be tougher for you. You’ll be eligible for release at 22.”
Shocking Footage and Ongoing Appeals
Mobile phone video shown in court captured the gang surrounding Jack as someone yelled, “Get the chopper out!” The group punched, kicked, and stamped on him — described as “animals attacking prey” by witnesses.
Before sentencing, nine of the convicted youths launched appeals against their convictions.
A Crown Prosecution Service spokesman confirmed, “We have now received notices of appeal from nine of the ten defendants found guilty.”
